Let the Filing Begin It’s Opening Day for Tax Season

It may not share the revelry that Opening Day has for deer, fish or baseball seasons; but for Central New York residents expecting income tax returns, it's a day to rejoice. Today the IRS begins accepting tax returns.

Many of those expecting checks may have already gone through the process of filing a return, but the paperwork has not been seen by the person that cuts the checks. So you could see your money 21 days from today, if you electronically file and use direct deposit or debit card for the refund.

The IRS still anticipates issuing more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days, but there are some important factors to keep in mind for taxpayers.

One of those important factors involves having kids. If you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit, by some legal reason late February will be the earliest you can expect a refund. Once you have filed you can track your refund at the IRS website or they even offer an IRS 2 Go App for mobile devices.

Good news is you're one of those that have to pay at the end of the year. The tax season has 2 extra days in 2018. Deadline to pay will be April 17.